Reader’s Response: Navigating discrepancies between expectation and reality in my new home

• Upon reading “Addressing disparity between advertised and end product in housing industry”, a homebuyer finds herself agreeing on more than one point as she recounts her real-life encounter.

I walked into my new house, heart brimming with anticipation and excitement. The journey to homeownership has been long and challenging, spanning five long years from 2019 to 2023, but finally, the day arrived.

However, as I stepped across the threshold, I couldn't help but notice that the reality before me was not entirely aligned with the images I had carefully studied in the well-produced brochures and beautifully-portrayed show unit.

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Addressing disparity between advertised and end product in housing industry

Staircase skirting

One of the first disparities that caught my eye was the absence of skirting along the staircase. The show unit had showcased a meticulously designed staircase, complete with a tile skirting that added a touch of tranquil look on the railing. However, the stark reality was a staircase lacking that promised finishing touch and more like a shoplot design. The absence of skirting seemed like an oversight, a detail that might appear minor but had a tangible impact on the overall aesthetics.

Electrical point placements

Another disheartening discovery awaited as I explored further. The meticulously-planned positions of electrical points, as illustrated in the brochure, did not match the actual layout of the house. The convenience that I had envisioned in placing furniture and setting up appliances was compromised. It was disconcerting to realise that a detail as fundamental as electrical point placement had been altered without prior notice or consent.

Facade and aesthetics

The facade, which had been a key selling point in the brochure, turned out to be a complex interplay between aesthetic aspirations and practical necessities. The promise of a harmonious facade design was overshadowed by the placement of a huge, imposing air-conditioning compressor. What was meant to be an architectural focal point was now marred by this functional addition, highlighting the disparity between the picturesque representation and the functional reality.

Transparent communication needed

While the journey to address these disparities may appear daunting, it is crucial for both homeowners and developers to engage in transparent communication. Accurate representation is not only an ethical obligation but also the foundation of trust in the real estate industry. Timely notifications about design alterations, coupled with options for resolution, can mitigate the sense of disappointment and ensure that buyers are well-informed before making a substantial investment.

The experience reminded me the journey to homeownership involves more than physical possession – it requires bridging the gap between expectation and reality. Such disparities are not merely inconveniences – they erode the trust between buyers and developers, tainting the excitement of homeownership.

The real estate industry must recognise that building trust requires adherence to promised features. Honesty during advertising, consistent communication during construction, and stringent quality checks can serve as remedies to this situation.

Regulations required

Regulatory bodies can play a pivotal role in this reform. Requiring developers to maintain transparency throughout the construction process, validating advertised features against the final product, and imposing penalties for discrepancies can deter the prevalence of such issues.

Indeed, National House Buyers Association (HBA) honorary secretary general Datuk Chang Kim Loong’s suggestion for a new legislation under the Housing Development (Control & Licensing) Act 1966, specifically focusing on "show unit regulations and compliance," holds significant merit. This proposed addition could greatly enhance the transparency and accountability within the real estate industry, ensuring that the representations made during the pre-sales phase align more closely with the actual product delivered. Under these show unit regulations and compliances, certain measures could be implemented to address the disparities between advertised features and the final property product.

In short, the gap between advertised and actual property features is a critical concern that demands immediate attention. Homebuyers invest not only their hard-earned money but also their dreams and aspirations. It's imperative for the real estate industry to bridge this gap and uphold the integrity of promises made, ensuring that every homeowner experiences the joy of a home that truly lives up to expectations.

The article has been edited for clarity. The views expressed are the writer’s and do not necessarily reflect EdgeProp’s.

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